Nigerian Banks Earn N9.88tn Despite CBN Policy Changes

Five major banks in Nigeria (Zenith Bank Plc (NGX: ZENITHBANK), Wema Bank Plc (NGX: WEMABANK), Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc (NGX: STANBIC), Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (NGX: ETI), and Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (NGX: GTCO)) posted a total interest income of N9.88 trillion for the year 2025, marking a 27.7% increase from N7.74 trillion in 2024. Zenith Bank led with N3.67 trillion, a 35% rise from the previous year, followed by Ecobank with N3.19 trillion and GTCO with N1.65 trillion, a 23% increase.

Stanbic IBTC recorded N787.05 billion, representing a 39% rise, while Wema Bank reported N576.07 billion, a sharp 62.4% increase year-on-year. Despite the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reducing its monetary policy rate to 27% to stabilize inflation and the naira, high interest rates continue to drive bank earnings from loans and investments.

The average maximum lending rate slightly moderated to 29.32% in December 2025 from 29.71% the previous year. CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso acknowledged ongoing inflationary pressures and expressed optimism about government reforms aimed at boosting local production.